📌 Credential Stuffing Summary
Credential stuffing is a type of cyber attack where hackers use stolen usernames and passwords from one website to try and log into other websites. Because many people reuse the same login details across different sites, attackers can often gain access to multiple accounts with a single set of credentials. This method relies on automated tools to rapidly test large numbers of username and password combinations.
🙋🏻♂️ Explain Credential Stuffing Simply
Imagine you have one key that fits your house, your friend’s house, and your school. If someone steals that key, they can try it on every door you use. Credential stuffing works the same way with passwords, letting criminals break into lots of accounts if you use the same password everywhere.
📅 How Can it be used?
A security project could use software to detect and block suspicious login attempts that match patterns of credential stuffing.
🗺️ Real World Examples
An online retailer discovers that many customer accounts are being accessed by attackers using stolen login details from a different breached website. The attackers use automated scripts to quickly try thousands of username and password pairs, leading to unauthorised purchases and account takeovers.
A streaming service notices a spike in failed login attempts. After investigation, they find that attackers are using credential stuffing to gain access to user accounts, resulting in accounts being used without permission to stream paid content.
✅ FAQ
What is credential stuffing and why should I be concerned about it?
Credential stuffing is when hackers take stolen usernames and passwords from one website and try them on other sites, hoping people have reused their details. It is a big problem because many of us use the same password for more than one account, making it easy for criminals to break into multiple services with very little effort.
How do hackers get hold of my passwords for credential stuffing attacks?
Hackers usually get hold of passwords from data breaches where a website is hacked and user details are leaked. These stolen details often end up for sale or shared online. Attackers then use automated tools to try these details on different websites, looking for accounts where people have reused their passwords.
What can I do to protect myself from credential stuffing attacks?
The best way to protect yourself is to use a different password for every account. Using a password manager can help you keep track of them all. Turning on two-factor authentication wherever possible adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for someone to access your accounts even if they have your password.
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